Evaluating Theories of Language Evidence from Disordered Communication

One approach to the study of language has been to describe people whose ability to communicate is impaired. Some researchers have argued that it is possible to identify the component mental processes that contribute to the ability to communicate by describing the ways in which language can break down. Other researchers have expressed doubts about the extent to which data from impairment reflects normal language function.

This volume reflects the problems of constructing theory of how the normal brain deals with language from data from impaired individuals from the perspective of a range of disciplines: psycholinguistics, linguistics, neurophysiology and speech-language pathology. The chapters include critiques of methodology; application of new technology; the study of bilingual people; and cross-linguistic studies. A range of language skills is discussed (phonology, prosody, syntax, semantics, reading and spelling) in the context of both developmental and acquired impairments (hearing loss, cerebellar dysarthria, sub-cortical aphasia, cortical aphasia, phonological disorder, and dyslexia).

This book icludes contributions from researchers and clinicians on both sides of the Atlantic as well as from Australia and Hong Kong.

Karen Dodd is known for her research into the effects of therapeutic exercise for people with chronic disabilities, particularly neurological disabilities. She has published and presented extensively on this topic. She co-produced an innovative instructional DVD on strength training for people with cerebral palsy that won the Fred P. Sage award for the best audiovisual product at the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine 60th Annual Meeting.

Ruth Campbell is Professor of Psychology at Goldsmiths College, University of London.

Linda Worralk is the editor of Evaluating Theories of Language: Evidence from Disordered Communication, published by Wiley.